About Us
The resort is located on the shores of Beautiful Peninsula (Pen) Lake. Colonial Bay is a small three season cottage resort catering mostly to young families and those who like the slower pace of a Muskoka vacation. With less than 40 people on the property at any one time you can experience your very own corner of Muskoka during your stay. There are many activities for everyone, including a range of water toys, lots of time to socialize at the waterfront, the evening campfire, or you can enjoy the privacy of your own cabin.
Colonial Bay is the perfect place to unwind or use as a base for great day trips and adventure…. The famous Algonquin Park is just half an hour way offering scenic hikes, canoeing on one of the numerous lakes or cycling along the old railroad tracks. The town of Huntsville is picturesque and welcoming. There are a number of interesting shops and a variety of restaurants.
Our History
The resort opened as Brooklyn Lodge in the early 1940’s by Mrs Mary Brooks. In the early days guests came for the summer and spent their time fishing, swimming and enjoying family time in a beautiful setting. 1942 (owner, pictures…)
In the late 1960’s the name was changed to Tamarack Cottages. Kitchens were added to the cabins and although the tradition of communal dining ended, the family hospitality continued with the Porrier and Coupland families during that time. In 1976 the Henry family purchased the property
Bruce and Nicolle Howell bought the property in 1994 and continue to welcome guests from all parts of the world today. One of the original Lodges on Peninsula Lake was purchased by the Howell family in 1969 affording Bruce a head start in hospitality. Bruce and Nicolle continue the history of friendly Howell hospitality today. While times change you can still enjoy a traditional family vacation at Colonial Bay – authentic, casual and family focussed.